Safety first on the farm

FARMERS have had a difficult start to 2013 due to the slow start to the growing season. Regardless of the time pressure, farmers should make sure they retain safety at the top of their priority list over the coming months.
Many dangers on the farm are obvious – poorly maintained tractors and machinery; unguarded PTO shafts and inadequate fencing. However, farmers need to look out for danger as they carry out their routine tasks. For example, when preparing for spraying, it is vital to pay extra attention to handling and storage of chemicals and spraying equipment.
During the breeding period, it is important that farmers are conscious of possible dangers with particular regard to the introduction of new bulls to the herd. Every bull, no matter how docile he might appear, must be treated as a potential danger.
With such a late spring, the movement of cattle out onto grass might require extra hands on deck, which again implies safety considerations.
The annual herd tests for TB will soon be underway and, for farmers, the movement and corralling of cattle, while they are tested and readings taken, will probably require additional help.
Farmers need to ensure they have adequate employers and public liability insurance to provide adequate compensation where appropriate. This will also ensure financial protection to the farmer for the farm enterprise and assets.
Rather than get caught out for not having sufficient cover, it is important to take the time to check your insurance arrangements and chat to your local FBD representative.
With fodder stocks depleted in every farmyard, good silage crops will be essential this year. To avoid costly mishaps, it is advisable to make sure the fields are rolled to remove hazardous debris or any obstacle that may cause damage to machinery. Fields may be bare now but hopefully they provide bumper – and safe –crops this season.
By the FBD farming team. FBD Insurance plc is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Advt